Integrating knowledge of multitasking and interruptions across different perspectives and research methods

Authors

Christian P. JANSSEN, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
Sandy J. J. GOULD, University College London, United Kingdom
Yau Wai, Simon LI, Lingnan University, Hong Kong
Duncan P. BRUMBY, UCL Interaction Centre, University College London, London, United Kingdom
Anna L. COX, UCL Interaction Centre, University College London, London, United KingdomFollow

Document Type

Journal article

Source Publication

International Journal of Human-Computer Studies

Publication Date

1-2015

Volume

79

First Page

1

Last Page

5

Keywords

Experimental methods, Individual differences, Interdisciplinary research, Interruptions, Meta-analyses, Models, Multitasking, Practice, Quantified self, Theory

Abstract

Multitasking and interruptions have been studied using a variety of methods in multiple fields (e.g., HCI, cognitive science, computer science, and social sciences). This diversity brings many complementary insights. However, it also challenges researchers to understand how seemingly disparate ideas can best be integrated to further theory and to inform the design of interactive systems. There is therefore a need for a platform to discuss how different approaches to understanding multitasking and interruptions can be combined to provide insights that are more than the sum of their parts. In this article we argue for the necessity of an integrative approach. As part of this argument we provide an overview of articles in this special issue on multitasking and interruptions. These articles showcase the variety of methods currently used to study multitasking and interruptions. It is clear that there are many challenges to studying multitasking and interruptions from different perspectives and using different techniques. We advance a six-point research agenda for the future of multi-method research on this important and timely topic.

DOI

10.1016/j.ijhcs.2015.03.002

Print ISSN

10715819

E-ISSN

10959300

Publisher Statement

Copyright © 2015 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.

Full-text Version

Accepted Author Manuscript

Language

English

Recommended Citation

Janssen, C. P., Gould, S. J. J., Li, S. Y. W., Brumby, D. P., & Cox, A. L. (2015). Integrating knowledge of multitasking and interruptions across different perspectives and research methods. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 79, 1-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ijhcs.2015.03.002